Safari on iOS 18 Introduces "Distraction Control": Blocking Distractions and Focusing on Browsing

Safari on iOS 18 Introduces "Distraction Control": Blocking Distractions and Focusing on BrowsingApple's recent iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 Sequoia Beta 5 updates introduced a new feature to Safari called "Distraction Control." This feature aims to help users reduce distractions while browsing, allowing them to focus on the content itself

Safari on iOS 18 Introduces "Distraction Control": Blocking Distractions and Focusing on Browsing

Apple's recent iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 Sequoia Beta 5 updates introduced a new feature to Safari called "Distraction Control." This feature aims to help users reduce distractions while browsing, allowing them to focus on the content itself.

"Distraction Control" is not an ad blocker. It doesn't directly block ads, but rather targets page elements that might distract users, such as subscription pop-ups, cookie requests, and more. Users can simply choose to hide these distractions, resulting in a cleaner and more focused reading experience.

How to Use "Distraction Control"?

After logging into a website, you can press the page menu button in the search bar (located in the same place as the reader and viewer buttons), and then click on "Hide distractions." Users can then select which sections of the page they want to filter out, such as ads, subscription pop-ups, comment sections, etc. Safari remembers your actions and automatically blocks these elements when you visit the domain again.

Limitations and Considerations for "Distraction Control":

• "Distraction Control" doesn't permanently remove ads, particularly banner ads that refresh on subsequent visits.

• Users need to actively choose what to block. The system doesn't automatically detect and block distractions.

• "Distraction Control" only applies to specific domains, and not all websites support this feature.

• If the blocked content changes, they will reappear on your next visit.

How "Distraction Control" Handles GDPR Cookie Requests:

Theoretically, users can use "Distraction Control" to hide GDPR-compliant cookie permission request dialogs. If users choose to block these requests, the website will only inform you that you have dismissed the request, without receiving a response. Websites will have to act accordingly, based on legal requirements in different regions.

The Impact of "Distraction Control" on Paywalls:

It's unclear how "Distraction Control" handles website paywalls, especially those that employ different protection methods.

Summary:

"Distraction Control" is a new feature in Safari that helps users block distracting page elements for a more focused reading experience. While it's not an ad blocker, it can effectively reduce distractions like subscription pop-ups, cookie requests, and more, allowing users to access the information they need more conveniently.

The introduction of this feature demonstrates Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience. With future updates, we anticipate "Distraction Control" to become more refined and offer more personalized options to meet the needs of different users.